Katie Smithson Obituary (1979 - 2017)

Obituary for Katie McKell Smithson Katie McKell Smithson, of Orem Utah, gently passed away from complications of a medical condition on February 25, 2017, at the age of 37, on a sunny afternoon surrounded by family full of love and gratitude for experiencing part of life with her. Katie was born March 16, 1979 to Rick A. and Janet Webber McKell. She will be missed by all who know her. She is survived by her two sons McKade and Crew Smithson; parents Janet and Rick McKell; her siblings and in-laws Emily, Melissa & Brian, Megan & Ryan, Colton & Natalie, and Madisen; her nephew and niece, Hayden and Sophie; and her grandmother Olive Webber. She was preceded in death by her grandmother Lorna McKell. People enjoyed being with her because of who she was. She thought about others, and was generous. She was a loving person, which greatly enhanced her motherhood. She constantly thought and spoke lovingly about her sons. Despite the health issues she faced throughout her life, none of that distracted her from loving others. These challenges helped forge her to be a hard headed fighter. She tried lived her life to the fullest despite her limitations. Katie was full of life and determination. She accomplished anything she set her mind to. Athleticism was natural to Katie, some of her favorite activities growing up were dancing and track & field. She excelled and achieved high honors in both. Her desire was to live a life full of adventure and fun. Katie was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and had an overwhelming testimony and love for the gospel. She faithfully served in many callings throughout her life. Katie had a keen sense of humor and a dry wit. She loved to use her creative imagination to make up silly stories collaborating with siblings, and culminating in laughter. Her sense of humor appealed to everyone. When she spoke, she said it like it was. Often those two traits combined to make some great laughs. People were drawn to Katie because she was likeable, open-hearted, and friendly to all. She never judged anyone and loved all who came into her life, making her home welcome and open to everyone. At a young age she expressed a natural love for children. As an older sister she had a glance of what motherhood would be like and could not wait for the day she would have her own children. Once she became a mother, her world revolved around her boys. She loved and will always love them to infinity plus one. For those us who have feelings of gratitude for time spent with Katie, please remember to incorporate these feelings into your individual life. Gratitude fuels feelings of love. In lieu of flowers or other gifts of thoughtfulness, if desired, please consider donating to an organization dedicated to helping those with diabetes and/or funding research to cure diabetes. Here are a few suggestions. Children's Diabetes Foundation Joslin Diabetes Center Diabetes Research Institute Foundation American Diabetes Association Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation Funeral services will be held at 11a.m. Friday, March 3, 2017 at the Cascade LDS 2nd Ward, 481 E. Center Street, Orem with a viewing prior from 9:30a.m. to 10:45a.m. An additional viewing will be held Thursday evening from 5:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. at Nelson Family Mortuary, 4780 N. University Ave., Provo. Interment will be at Eastlawn Memorial Hills, 4800 N. 650 E., Provo.